Estate planning is an essential step for anyone who wants to secure their legacy and provide for loved ones after their passing. Creating a will ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, but many people struggle with the decision of whether to use a Post office Will kit or hire a solicitor for professional drafting. Each option has benefits and drawbacks, depending on your financial situation, family dynamics, and level of comfort with legal documents. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches, helping you make an informed decision about which option best fits your needs.
Why Writing a Will Is So Important
Before examining the differences between do-it-yourself and professionally drafted wills, it’s worth highlighting why having a will matters in the first place:
- Prevents intestacy – Without a valid will, your estate is divided under government rules.
- Protects loved ones – Ensures assets go to the people you choose, not the default beneficiaries.
- Names guardians – Allows you to appoint trusted individuals to care for minor children.
- Reduces conflict – Minimises family disputes over inheritance.
- Provides clarity – Clearly outlines your final wishes, easing the burden on relatives.
With such important decisions at stake, the method you choose to draft your will can significantly impact your estate planning.
What Is a DIY Will Kit?
A DIY will kit is a self-completion package that provides templates and instructions for writing a legally valid will. These kits are widely available online and in stationery stores, designed for individuals who want an affordable and simple way to prepare their estate documents without consulting a solicitor.
Most kits include:
- Standardised templates for wills.
- Guidance notes on how to complete each section.
- Information on legal signing and witnessing requirements.
- Advice on updating your will in the future.
DIY kits are typically best for people with straightforward estates and uncomplicated family situations.
Pros of Using a DIY Will Kit
Choosing a DIY solution comes with several notable advantages:
- Cost-effective – Kits are far cheaper than hiring a solicitor.
- Convenient – Can be completed at home in your own time.
- Quick process – Often takes only a few hours to finish.
- Privacy – You don’t need to share sensitive financial or family details with a third party.
- Basic estate coverage – Suitable for individuals with simple wishes, such as leaving everything to a spouse or children.
For those with straightforward needs, a kit can provide a valid and affordable solution.
Cons of Using a DIY Will Kit
Despite the benefits, DIY wills also carry significant risks:
- Risk of errors – Incorrect wording may make the will invalid.
- Limited guidance – Kits provide general instructions, not tailored advice.
- Excludes complex estates – Not suitable if you have business assets, overseas property, or large investments.
- Potential disputes – Ambiguities in the document may lead to family conflict.
- Lack of tax planning – Kits do not address inheritance tax or other financial planning considerations.
Without professional input, there is a real possibility of leaving behind a legally flawed or incomplete will.
What Is Professional Will Drafting?
Professional will drafting involves working with a solicitor or estate planning expert to create a legally binding will. The process is customised to your circumstances, ensuring every detail is properly addressed and compliant with the law.
Professional drafting typically includes:
- A full consultation to understand your estate and family structure.
- Customised legal wording to reflect your wishes.
- Advice on inheritance tax and trust creation.
- Assurance that the will is valid and enforceable.
- Safe storage and future updating services.
This approach is recommended for those with complex estates or anyone who wants complete peace of mind.
Pros of Professional Drafting
Hiring a solicitor provides several strong benefits:
- Tailored advice – Guidance specific to your financial and family situation.
- Legal accuracy – Reduces the chance of errors or invalidation.
- Comprehensive estate planning – Can include trusts, tax strategies, and guardianship provisions.
- Conflict reduction – Professionally written wills are less likely to be contested.
- Ongoing support – Solicitors often provide storage and review services to keep your will up to date.
This option ensures your wishes are respected without leaving room for legal disputes.
Cons of Professional Drafting
However, professional drafting also has some disadvantages to consider:
- Higher cost – Solicitors’ fees are significantly more than DIY kits.
- Time commitment – Requires in-person meetings or lengthy consultations.
- Less privacy – You must disclose your financial and family details to a third party.
- Overly complex for simple estates – For those with basic inheritance wishes, the process may feel excessive.
For straightforward cases, the expense may outweigh the benefits.
DIY Will Kit vs Professional Drafting: Which Should You Choose?
The decision depends on the complexity of your estate and your personal priorities.
A DIY will kit may be right if:
- You have a small estate with minimal assets.
- Your inheritance wishes are simple.
- You want a low-cost and fast solution.
- You feel confident in following instructions carefully.
Professional drafting may be better if:
- You own significant property or investments.
- You have a blended or complex family situation.
- You run a business that needs succession planning.
- You want advice on tax-efficient estate distribution.
- You prefer complete legal assurance.
Key Takeaways
- DIY kits are affordable and simple but carry the risk of errors.
- Professional drafting is more expensive but provides accuracy, tailored advice, and peace of mind.
- The best option depends on your estate’s size, complexity, and your tolerance for risk.
- Regardless of the method, ensure your will is signed, witnessed correctly, and stored safely.
- Review and update your will regularly to reflect life changes.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between a DIY will kit and professional drafting is a personal choice that depends largely on your financial and family situation. If your estate is straightforward and you are comfortable following structured instructions, a DIY option may be sufficient. However, for more complex estates, professional drafting provides the security and expertise needed to protect your legacy.
Either way, taking the step to create a will is far better than leaving your loved ones without guidance. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can make a decision that secures your assets, avoids unnecessary disputes, and ensures your wishes are respected.